On 14 March 2025, under a warm and sunlit sky, family, friends, and colleagues gathered at St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta to farewell the Diocese of Parramatta’s Facilities Manager, Mark Tramoli. The service was a blend of sorrow and gratitude, honouring a life filled with kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication.
Mark’s untimely passing at the age of 40 left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him. As the community of Bethany Centre came together in grief, the Mass celebrated a life well-lived, though far too short.
The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Bishop of Parramatta, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, together with Vicar Generals Very Rev Peter Williams and Very Rev Luis Fernando Montano EV PP, Rev Mons Ron McFarlane, Rev Paul Marshall, Rev Tom Green and seminarians from Holy Spirit Seminary. The cathedral choir, made up of Chancery staff who knew Mark well, was led by Bernard Kirkpatrick, Director of Music.
Mark’s memorial table inside St Patrick’s Cathedral. Image: supplied
A memorial table at the entrance displayed items reflecting Mark’s passions: rugby, football, fishing, and gardening. It was a fitting tribute to a man whose spirit had touched so many.
Mark’s journey had not been easy in recent months. Diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer just weeks before his death, he fought valiantly, supported by his pregnant wife Amber, their families, and friends. Mark passed away on Ash Wednesday, 5 March 2025, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life.
Words of remembrance
Chris Tramoli, Mark’s brother, spoke emotionally about their childhood, recalling mischievous games, sports, and fishing trips with their father.
“Mark, your smile, humour, and love made people fall in love with you,” Chris said.
“Your legacy will live on through Amber and your son.”
Mark’s sister Natasha described him as “magnificent, radiant, and kind-hearted.”
Image: supplied
She spoke of their joyful childhood, saying, “Even though you left us too soon, you’ll always be the brightest part of our memories.”
Friend Robert shared memories from their school days in the Diocese and spoke of Mark’s love for sport and his adventurous spirit.
“Mark had a fulfilling and carefree life,” Robert said, recounting how Mark’s love for snowboarding took him around the world.
Amber, Mark’s wife, reflected on their deep connection.
“Mark, you were my best friend,” she said, trembling.
“I’ll cherish every moment we spent together. Our son will carry your legacy with him, and I’ll hold you in my heart forever.”
The grief in Amber’s words echoed through the cathedral, yet there was also gratitude for Mark’s life – a life that had brought warmth and joy to so many.
The blessing of bells for St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta in September 2020. Image: supplied
The scripture readings further highlighted Mark’s faith and hope. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom, shared by Mark’s manager Julian Concato, spoke of the beauty of a life well-lived. The second, from St John’s first letter, read by Facilities Officer Joseph Mekdessi, spoke of the future revealed to us. These readings resonated deeply with those who knew Mark for his kindness and faith.
Very Rev Peter Williams delivered a moving homily, reflecting on the paradox of life and death. Quoting Harold Kushner, Fr Peter addressed the question, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” He noted that, like Mark, many were seeking not just answers but solace in the love that surrounds them.
Fr Peter described Mark as a living embodiment of Christian faith – a man who gave without seeking recognition. His role at the Bethany Centre was more than a job; it was a ministry, a place where he found fulfilment and connection with others.
“Mark was the heart of this place,” Fr Peter said. “He was the soul of the building.”
Fr Peter also spoke of Mark’s love for gardening, drawing a beautiful parallel between the gardens Mark tended at the Bethany Centre and the “garden of Heaven” where Mark now rests.
Image: supplied
As the service concluded, the congregation prayed for Mark’s soul to find peace, and for his family to find comfort in the love that surrounded them.
After the Mass, friends and family gathered in the Cloister Hall to share stories, while Mark’s family proceeded to a private burial.
Mark Tramoli’s legacy of kindness, humour, and humility will never be forgotten. His life, though short, was one of profound meaning, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
May he rest in peace.
